Birch Aquarium tickets

From its unforgettable view of the Pacific Ocean to its memorable marine life exhibits, Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a must-see for every San Diego landlubber. Learn about living coral reefs, watch baby seahorses play, listen to whale songs, and even pet sea stars.

Home to more than 5,000 fish in over 60 habitats, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps features hands-on interactive activities, including shark and turtle feedings, touch pools, dive shows, and more. You’ll learn all about ocean science, right from the source—the Birch Aquarium interprets the research and discoveries of Scripps Institution of Oceanography, a world-leader in marine science.

Discover a stunning variety of marine habitats at Birch Aquarium. Dive into exhibits that showcase the mysteries of ocean, air, and life through interactive displays and multimedia.

Birch Aquarium promotes conservation and sustainable living through public education with the belief that an increased understanding of the ocean, its inhabitants, and how they’re both affected by human impact, people will respect and discover a desire to protect the marine environment and promote awareness.

Your Birch Aquarium tickets include:

General Admission Birch Aquarium at Scripps ticket which includes admission to all regularly scheduled exhibits and activities.

Exhibit highlights:
Each of the exhibits at Birch Aquarium brings to life a unique aspect of ocean life. Here are the ongoing exhibits you won't want to miss:

Boundless Energy: this interactive exhibit explore the future of renewable energy and the innovative ways scientists are using natural forces like the wind, sun, and other (sometimes unexpected) sources to power our daily lives so that we can conserve our resources and live in a sustainable world.

Feeling the Heat: Birch Aquarium presents the science and challenges of global climate change - backed by 50 years of research from Scripps' Institution of Oceanography. Check out a futuristic news report showing what the weather may look like in 2050, and test your knowledge of the extent to which everyday items impact the environment.

There’s Something About Seahorses: did you know male seahorses can become pregnant? Visit their babies in the seahorse nursery and come nose to ‘snout’ with these fascinating seahorses and seadragons.

Infinity Cube: Language of Light: explore the phenomenon of bioluminescence, light produced by living organisms, in the marine environment when you step into the “infinity cube” which displays more than six hours of film footage of single-celled marine organisms reacting to various stimulants.

ElasmoBeach: meet the ‘locals’ when you come face-to-face with leopard sharks and elasmobranchs (a species of rays) in this large outdoor tank that explore the animals that live right in La Jolla shores.

Research in Action: 100 Island Challenge: also referred to as the Hall of Fishes and Shark Reef, visit the more than 60 habitats housed here, including a 70,000-gallon kelp forest tank and habitats of creatures found from the Pacific Northwest to the tropical waters of Mexico. Some of the world's most beautiful species are housed here, including whitetip and blacktip reef sharks. Learn all about how coral reefs around the world are being affected by climate change and help scientists attempt to answer why some reefs are suffering while others are thriving.

Expedition at Sea: get a glimpse into the research that goes on at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and see what it’s like to live and work aboard a research sea vessel, the R/V Sally Ride. You’ll get to see footage from the ship’s 100+ years of exploration and learn about specimens discovered during the ship’s time at sea.

Tide Pool Plaza: get your hands wet for an up-close look at "life on the edge" of the ocean. You’ll get to touch sea stars, sea anemones, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, lobsters, and more in organisms that life in rocky intertidal habitats—all natives of San Diego's coastal waters.

Mexican Seas / Mares Mexicanos: take a photographic journey to four unique biodiversity hotspots that can be found in Mexican waters and learn about “the art of science” and how it’s used to inspire conservation and awareness.

And more

Insider tips:

Check the Daily Schedule before you go or when you arrive to plan your visit around any of the feedings, dive shows, or other activities you want to see.

Splash! Café by The French Gourmet is located right by the entrance to Birch Aquarium at Scripps.

Public transportation to Birch Aquarium is available and guests can receive up to 3 hours of free parking.

To avoid the largest crowds, Birch Aquarium recommends visiting at 9:00 am or after 2:00 pm for a quieter experience.

Most visitors spend between 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits at the aquarium.

If you plan to leave and visit the aquarium within the same day, be sure to get a hand stamp when you leave.

Fun facts to know before you go:

Scripps Institution of Oceanography is a division of U.C. San Diego and is one of the oldest and largest centers for ocean and Earth science research, public service, and scholarly training facilities in the world. The building itself is a National Historic Landmark. Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public exploration destination for the world-renowned institution to showcase their discoveries and ongoing research efforts on climate, earth, and ocean science.

Birch Aquarium is situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, so be sure to take in the views while you’re there.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps is sometimes referred to as Scripps Aquarium, Birch Aquarium, or San Diego Aquarium—they’re all referring to Birch Aquarium at Scripps.

Birch Aquarium gives children and adults alike a fascinating look at marine life, while allowing for hands-on science education, with lessons they're not likely to forget. Thanks to the research and dedication of Scripps' Institution of Oceanography, thousands of visitors leave each year feeling inspired to respect and preserve marine life.

The Go San Diego Card is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility.
Your pass includes Birch Aquarium tickets, plus admission to dozens more top attractions.

Getting In

Present your pass at the admissions counter.

Hours

Daily, 9:00 am-5:00 pm

Closings

Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.All holiday hours are subject to change without notice.

Address

2300 Expedition WayLa Jolla, CA 92037

Driving Directions

I-5 to La Jolla Village Drive exit, head west. La Jolla Village Drive becomes North Torrey Pines Road (approx. 1 mile). Turn left on Expedition Way. Parking is to your left, at the bottom of the hill. Three hour parking is included with admission.

Public Transportation

By Bus: Bus #34 to Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Get off at Downwind Way and La Jolla Shores. Walk up Downwind Way to aquarium.